The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is on track to plant a record 3,264 trees by the end of 2026, expanding its annual roadside tree planting program through a partnership with local nonprofit Casey Trees.
MCDOT typically plants approximately 2,000 trees each year along County-owned rights-of-way. This year, the department partnered with Casey Trees to plant an additional 1,200 trees in areas identified as needing greater investment in tree coverage. The additional plantings are funded through the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Urban Trees Program as part of Maryland’s 5 Million Trees initiative.
“MCDOT’s tree-planting program serves a critical role in protecting our urban environment from the impacts of climate change,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. He noted that roadside trees help absorb rainwater, reduce flooding, provide shade during extreme heat, and improve air quality.
MCDOT arborists select planting locations and tree species and oversee ongoing maintenance. The department is responsible for more than 300,000 trees throughout the County, most of which are located along public roads.
Residents interested in having a tree planted along the County-owned right-of-way near their property can submit a request through MC311 by calling 311 or 240-777-0311. Planting generally takes place from fall through early spring, and MCDOT encourages residents to submit requests now for the upcoming planting season.
